Phil talked about Howard’s hard work, dedication to the people of NC, honesty, and friendship. He laughed with Howard about having to learn all the school mascots to carry on that tradition.

“It is a personal and professional honor to have our Congressman, Howard Coble, offer such kind words on my behalf. He has become a mentor to me, and I cherish his friendship and his wise counsel” Berger said.

Phil hopes to fill Howard’s big shoes by providing the same level of constituent services from his office as they have received from Howard’s. He also hopes to retain his staff so that they can continue to serve the 6th district.

“The name on the stationary may change, but Howard’s legacy of constituent services will remain as long as I am your congressman” said Berger. “As the primary point of contact with the federal government for many Americans, a congressional office can be a lifeline, providing answers and solutions for veterans, business owners, families, and concerned citizens.”

“This election provides the people of the 6th district with a choice. I would ask all of Howard’s supporters to join our positive, conservative campaign. I am proud that Howard Coble has chosen to support a proven conservative to replace him in Congress. Howard, thank you.”

“Thank you all for coming and may God continue to bless this great nation.”

“We are no longer interested in the proposed site in Greensboro, and we are not interested in any other sites in Greensboro at this time,” said Alison Mochizuki, Trader Joe’s spokeswoman, in an email to The Business Journal.

I’d speculate that the Trader Joe’s deal was window dressing all along for the drug store deal. Walgreen’s can pay a significant premium (sometimes up to $3-4 million) for a high profile corner, while TJ tends to get cheap deals as the draw/anchor for a shopping center. Given the developer’s costs in this deal, I’m guessing rents would have been north of $40/sf, while Trader Joe’s is used to rents in the low 20’s in a market like Greensboro.

I would expect the developer to move forward with the rezoning, because it’s not about Trader Joe’s. The big question is if there will still be the same outpouring of support for a drug store with a drive thru.